how to check if my Ford F-150 13th Generation (2015-2020) has suspension issues

Ford F-150 13th Generation (2015-2020)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

3 min read

546 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to check for suspension issues in your Ford F-150 (2015-2020). Step-by-step diagnostic guide with symptoms, tools, and solutions.

Affected Component

Suspension

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Always use jack stands when working under a vehicle raised by a jack.
•Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes during inspections.

Symptoms

•Uneven tire wear
•Excessive bouncing or swaying while driving
•Noises such as clunking or rattling when hitting bumps
•Vehicle pulling to one side during driving
•Stiffer or softer ride quality compared to normal
•Visible leaks from shock absorbers or struts

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect tires for uneven wear patterns and ensure proper inflation.
2
Perform a visual inspection of suspension components for any visible damage or signs of wear.
3
Push down on each corner of the vehicle to check for rebound and stability of the shocks/struts.
4
Conduct a road test to assess handling, ride comfort, and any abnormal noises.
5
Check for any loose bolts or fasteners on suspension components.
6
Use a pry bar to test for play in control arms and bushings.

Solution

💡 Expert Tip

For complex repairs like this, consider taking photos at each step. This helps if you need to reverse a step or consult with a mechanic. Also, keep all removed parts organized - you may need to reference them during reassembly.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

✓Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
✓Check for any error codes or warning lights
✓Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

•Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
•Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
•Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
•Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

•Tire pressure gauge
•Chalk or marker
•Floor jack
•Jack stands
•Flashlight
•Pry bar

Parts Required

•Replacement shocks or struts (if found defective)
•Control arms or bushings (if found damaged)

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Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect tires for uneven wear patterns and ensure proper inflation.
2
Perform a visual inspection of suspension components for any visible damage or signs of wear.
3
Push down on each corner of the vehicle to check for rebound and stability of the shocks/struts.
4
Conduct a road test to assess handling, ride comfort, and any abnormal noises.
5
Check for any loose bolts or fasteners on suspension components.
6
Use a pry bar to test for play in control arms and bushings.

Solution

1. Preparation

Gather necessary tools and materials.
Ensure the vehicle is parked on a flat, level surface and engage the parking brake.

2. Tire Inspection

Tools Required: Tire pressure gauge, chalk or marker.
Check tire pressure using the tire pressure gauge and adjust as needed.
Use chalk to mark the tread depth across the tire surface and look for uneven wear patterns.
Record findings for reference.

3. Visual Inspection of Suspension Components

Tools Required: Floor jack, jack stands, flashlight.
Lift the vehicle using the floor jack and secure it with jack stands.
Inspect the following components:
- Control arms for cracks or bends.
- Bushings for cracks or deterioration.
- Shock absorbers/struts for leaks or damage.
- Ball joints for wear, using a pry bar to test for play.
Replace any damaged components as needed.

4. Shock Absorber/Strut Testing

Tools Required: None.
Push down firmly on each corner of the vehicle and release.
Observe how quickly the vehicle returns to its original position; it should rebound smoothly without excessive bouncing.
If the vehicle bounces more than twice, consider replacing the shocks/struts.

5. Road Test

Drive the vehicle on a variety of surfaces to assess handling.
Listen for any abnormal sounds like clunking or rattling, particularly when going over bumps.
Note any pulling to one side and handle any identified issues based on findings.